ABSTRACT
The purpose of this chapter is to critically reflect on the practice of conducting grounded theory research as a doctoral student. There will be a reflection on personal experience undertaking a qualitative enquiry for a PhD research project which primarily used a constructivist grounded theory approach. The development of a philosophical perspective will be explored, rationalising a relativist ontological and constructivist epistemological positioning. Discussing the underpinning philosophy will also include the influence of the pragmatist paradigm and a symbolic interactionist theoretical framework. Current political debates about grounded theory research will be examined and related to the methodological choices as a novice researcher. The application of newly learned grounded theory methods within the constructivist grounded theory study will be critiqued, which also integrated dimensional analysis into the research design. The process of being a doctoral student informs the chapter throughout, including support received from supervisors, peers and a grounded theory special interest group. Practical advice and guidance on undertaking grounded theory research for the first time will provide insight to other students and novice researchers considering grounded theory methodology and methods.
